Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean you can’t pack an epic picnic for your days out. In fact, we’re firm believers that a warm lunch on a chilly day out will only make things better – and it’ll bring the fam together too.
Heading out into the great outdoors? These ideas will keep you stocked with energy. And if you’re heading out to a tourist attraction, our lunches will stop the kids wining about how ‘hungrrryyyyy’ they are. Promise.
Not only can picnics be outright delicious, they're also excellent money savers. Most tourist attractions serve food, but prices are soaring and taste can be lacking... So, why not grab a thermos and get to cooking?
We're all about money saving at daysout.com - why not check out our money saving hacks for days out? They'll save you some real cash.
How to keep food warm for a picnic
Okay, before we get started, insulated food and drink containers are gonna be your best friend during winter months. There’s nothing more disappointing than lukewarm soup and cold stew, right?
It’s best to be prepared, especially in winter, so make your meals a day ahead – just heat them up before you leave and chuck them in your handy-dandy food containers.
Don’t forget about drink options too – Thermos cups will keep your hot chocolate, tea, coffee (or even mulled wine) warm for hours.
Here are our favourite options
The best winter picnic food
Making a big pot of stew, soup or curry is a winter essential, so why not bring it on a day out with you too? P.s this is also a great way to use up leftovers – we’re looking at you, stew.
Here are some of our favourite warm picnic food recipes:
- Simple Bean and Chorizo Stew
- Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup
- Carrot and Coriander Soup
- Vegetarian Chilli
- 5-ingredient Sausage Pasta
- Vegan Chickpea and Squash Curry
Who said that cold food wasn’t allowed either? Sometimes all you need is a sandwich to get you through the day. You can mix and match too – soup and a sandwich is, like, the OG lunch choice.
Here are some of our favourite cold lunches:
- Homemade Sausage Rolls
- Sandwich recipes
- Curried Potato Pasties
- 10-minute Couscous Salad
- Autumn Vegetable Salad
- Mexican Chicken Wraps
Our top tips for winter picnic success:
- If you’re eating outside, bring something waterproof to sit on – nobody wants a cold bum in winter...
- Don’t forget cutlery!! (If you opted for finger foods, you’re safe from this one)
- Bring some blankets for a cosier experience
- Napkins for any messes (we know what it’s like)
- Suncream – don't tut, we hear you. The sun is still strong in winter (even in the UK)
- Hand sanitiser, for before and after you eat
- A rubbish bag, so you don’t leave any mess behind
- Bring snacks too – think hummus and veggies, crisps and biscuits (that’ll keep the kids happy)
- If you're braving particularly cold weather go for low water content foods so they won't freeze - fruit is a no go when it's really icy out
Looking for some picnic friendly days out? These attractions will do the trick.
- LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Manchester & LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Birmingham
- Warwick Castle
- Alton Towers
- Madame Tussauds London
At daysout.com, you can book the UK’s best attractions (y’know the proper FOMO inducing ones?) -- we know where’s perfect for you. Find your next adventure.
